Background
In South Sudan, fragile health systems and limited infrastructure have long hindered effective immunization coverage. With a significant portion of the population living in hard-to-reach areas, ensuring that children receive life-saving vaccines is a constant challenge. In 2024, the Ministry of Health, with support from WHO and UNICEF, rolled out a series of Immunization in Practice (IIP) trainings targeting frontline health workers across the country.
The Intervention:
The IIP training was designed to build the capacity of immunization staff in vaccine handling, cold chain management, data recording, defaulter tracking, and interpersonal communication. Using interactive modules, practical demonstrations, and job aids adapted for the South Sudanese context, the training focused on district-level health workers and facility staff.
In line with this year Immunization week theme that states immunization for all is humanly possible, Community Social and Economic Development Agency (COSEDA) under Health Sector Transformation Project (HSTP) and in collaboration with County Health Departments of Pigi and Tonj East counties, has continued with efforts to ensure populations in these hard to reach areas have access to immunization services. COSEDA has continued to ensure last mile delivery of vaccines, facility and mobile immunization outreach activities are accomplished as designed.
Further to this COSEDA, has organized Immunization In Practice training targeting health facilities and outreach vaccinators in respective counties. In a bid to improve mobility and support the vaccinators in outreach activities, COSEDA has made a deliberate effort to provide vaccinators in Tonj East with bicycles, bags and water bottles to help them during the various long journeys they have to make to reach the entire county.
The IIP training has proven to be more than just a learning event—it is a catalyst for systemic change. By equipping health workers with the knowledge and skills they need, South Sudan is taking meaningful steps toward increasing immunization coverage and protecting its children from preventable diseases.
